Floyd Leo Black

Floyd "Leo" Black, 77, of Cleveland, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 13, 2007. He was born on December 30, 1929 to the late King David and Edna Black in Loudon, TN. He was a graduate of Loudon High School. Over the past 40 years, Leo has been employed by Bradley Florist, having owned the florist for many of those years. He was a life time member of the Tennessee State Florist Association in which he held several positions over the years including President. Leo was a faithful member of First Baptist Church where he joyfully served as a member of the choir, coordinator of the Welcome Center, and deacon. For years he handed out chewing gum to the children at church and was affectionately known as the "chewing gum man." He was a member of the Cleveland Emmaus Community where he enjoyed decorating for the Walks and singing with the men?s chorus. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Betty Bolt Black of Cleveland; One son and daughter-in-law, Kent and Holly Black; one beloved grandson, Tyson Black, all of Cleveland; two brothers and spouses, Lloyd and Lucille Black of Loudon and Ernie and Pat Black of Sweetwater; one brother-in-law, Homer Bolt of Loudon and one sister-in-law, Peggy Wilcox of Loudon; "adopted" daughter and husband, Carolyn and Dean Ogden of Cleveland. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and a host of special friends. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 8:00 p.m. Thursday at First Baptist Church with Dr. Allan Lockerman officiating. A private interment will be held at a later date. The family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 p.m. on Thursday evening at the church prior to the service. The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 340 Church Street NE, Cleveland, TN 37311. Ralph Buckner Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.